Environmental Program Sends Students Into Local Waterways

Environmental Program Sends Students Into Local Waterways

Students took to the waters of Cayuga Creek on Thursday as part of a unique learning experience offered in the city.

This year, more than 50 middle school students explored the Niagara Falls watershed learning about their waterways and local wildlife during Honeywell Adventures in Environmental Leadership. The program, a collaboration among Honeywell, the OSC Charitable Foundation, Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper, and the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, hopes to stimulate learning about science and the environment and increase awareness about how actions on land affect local waterways.

“The program not only creates fun memories but experiences that can help shape a child’s future,” said Stephanie W. Cowart, executive director for Niagara Falls Housing Authority.

The students learned how to paddle kayaks from certified Riverkeeper instructors, and went on hikes led by Buffalo Audubon Society staff. Paddle tour sessions with Riverkeeper include water safety, introduction to kayaks and gear, and paddle skills. Students launch kayaks and paddle Hyde Park Lake, Little River, and Cayuga Creek.

“Honeywell’s Adventures in Environmental Leadership offers middle school students hands-on curriculum to inspire them to get excited about science and their environment,” explained Bob Sikorski, Honeywell Buffalo Research Laboratory site leader.

“Working together, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, the Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper, OSC, and Honeywell are teaching children about environmental stewardship through experimental learning and access to local waterways.”